Test the Armadillo PCB v0.4.1

Product Profile

The Armadillo PCB is an LED matrix with individually-addressable pixels and high refresh rate. It is controlled by serial (CLK and SIN pins) with latch (LAT pin). It has two operating modes: Dot Correction Mode and On/Off Mode (MOD pin).

General Test Procedure

1. Flash Arduino with provided code
2. Verify light pattern

Tools

• Computer (Linux, Windows, or Mac)
• Arduino Due
• Micro USB Cable
• 9v DC Power Supply
• Printer paper (2 sheets)

Procedure

1. The LEDs are very bright. Cover them with at least 2 sheets of printer paper to protect your eyes.
2. Download and install Arduino IDE
3. Use micro USB cable to connect the computer to the Arduino Due's programming port (located in the center, between USB peripheral port and barrel connector).
4. Inside Arduino IDE...
   1. When prompted, install Arduino Due software Arduino SAM Boards.
   2. Open armadillo-pcb-test.ino from this repository.
   3. Select Tools > Board > Arduino Due (Programming Port).
   4. Select Tools > Port > COM# (for example, COM3). Normally only one COM is shown.
   5. Click Upload. Make sure it is successful.
   6. Go to Tools > Serial Monitor. Expect output:
      
5. Connect 9v DC power supply negative (-) to Arduino GND.
6. Connect all 6 positions of PCB's J1 terminal block:
   • GND: Arduino GND (there are 3 total)
   • CLK: Arduino 26
   • SIN: Arduino 28
   • LAT: Arduino 30
   • MOD: Arduino 32
   • +9V: 9v DC power supply positive (+)
7. Turn on 9v DC power supply. Look for the snake pattern across all LEDs. Expect brightness to cycle every second.